Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at University of Northwestern Ohio
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
University of Northwestern Ohio's auto tech certificate stands out in a crowded field—with 941 similar programs nationwide, this one lands in the 74th percentile for earnings while keeping debt remarkably low at just $17,417. That's notable: graduates here earn about $4,000 more in their first year than the typical Ohio program, yet carry only slightly more debt. The 0.44 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than half their first year's salary, making those monthly loan payments manageable even on an entry-level technician's budget.
The earnings trajectory tells an encouraging story. Starting at $39,960, graduates see their income climb to $47,972 by year four—a 20% jump that suggests solid advancement potential in this field. While Ohio has cheaper alternatives, the earnings premium here appears worth the modest additional debt, particularly since this program attracts a fair number of Pell Grant recipients who successfully complete and find decent-paying work.
For a parent weighing technical training options, this represents a relatively safe bet: quick entry to the workforce, debt that won't crush your child financially, and clear evidence of career progression. The automotive industry's ongoing need for skilled technicians means steady work, and Northwestern Ohio's graduates demonstrate they're competitive in that job market.
Where University of Northwestern Ohio Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all vehicle maintenance and repair technologies certificate's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How University of Northwestern Ohio graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Northwestern Ohio graduates earn $40k, placing them in the 74th percentile of all vehicle maintenance and repair technologies certificate programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies certificate's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (29 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Northwestern Ohio | $39,960 | $47,972 | $17,417 | 0.44 |
| Great Oaks Career Campuses | $37,307 | $45,197 | $8,250 | 0.22 |
| Ohio Technical College | $34,312 | $38,865 | $12,000 | 0.35 |
| National Median | $35,905 | — | $11,000 | 0.31 |
Other Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies Programs in Ohio
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Ohio schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Great Oaks Career Campuses Cincinnati | — | $37,307 | $8,250 |
| Ohio Technical College Cleveland | — | $34,312 | $12,000 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Northwestern Ohio, approximately 32% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 74 graduates with reported earnings and 78 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.